Galeries Lafayette Doha celebrates 2nd edition of ‘Beauty Weekend’

Continuing with its tradition of celebrating beauty, Galeries Lafayette Doha launched the second edition of ‘Beauty Weekend’ in style. May 25 to May 27 was a special weekend for all beauty lovers in Doha as the ‘Beautiful You- Beauty Weekend’ opened the doors to an exclusive beauty-inspired experience.

From brand master classes, beauty treatments to counter animations, Galeries Lafayette Doha designed a complete 360-degree beauty escapade for the public to enjoy. Top international brands like Gucci, Indie Lee, Hermes, Guerlain, Christian Louboutin and Bobbi Brown were a part of the weekend celebrations.

The ‘Beauty Weekend’ masterclasses, which were the highlight of the event, welcomed expert speakers from different fields. From the House Perfumer of French Brand Caron, Jean Jacques, who was visiting Doha for the very first time, to a first time collaboration with Dr. Nada Soueidan from Medi Spa: NuYu, Galeries Lafayette Doha made sure to offer a complete beauty experience. A special beauty and haircare masterclass was delivered in collaboration with Doha’s luxury salon and spa, Beauty Hive and world’s leading luxury professional haircare brand, Kérastase.

In line with its vision to promote local talent, Galeries Lafayette Doha also used the ‘Beauty Weekend’ platform to promote local Qatari brands like Abdulla Al Abdulla, the regional Qatari influencer who has launched his niche fragrances and organic skincare, Abdulla Beauty.

The entire Parisian Store was dressed up for the ‘Beauty Weekend’ and special care was taken to make sure that the guests can engage with the surroundings. While the beauty magazine backdrop were a super-fun way to make memories at the event, the 360-degree video booth, ‘Glam Cam’, offered a trendy way to capture some glamorous, lively images for social media.

Adding a twist to the already interesting décor, a make-up-inspired bowling alley was created with pins resembling lipsticks, while the floor of the alley looked like an eyeshadow palette.

The La Suite, Galeries Lafayette Doha’s exclusive penthouse, was also converted into a stage for a beauty experience. From an exclusive Masterclass by Roja Dove for selected VIPs to a sensory journey with Abdulla Al Abdulla’s perfumes and skincare in collaboration with Inclub Studio, La Suite offered a true luxury beauty experience.

In line with the beauty theme of the event, a beauty macaroon station by Café Pouchkine and a special hydration station were stationed on the ground floor of the store. The hydration station offered lemon and lavender pink lemonade, perfect to boost health and beauty.

Speaking about the event, General Manager of Galeries Lafayette Doha Mr. Kevin Gerard Pender said: “Galeries Lafayette celebrates beauty not just in the conventional sense. We want our clients to discover the true essence of beauty and all things beautiful it entails. Our ‘Beauty Weekend’ experience is a journey, where you learn, enjoy, win and go home with a lot of beautiful memories.”

Galeries Lafayette Doha’s ‘Beauty Weekend’ was an ideal opportunity to discover answers for all beauty needs and the three days felt too little for everything that the event offered.

Turkish superstar Burak Özçivit becomes the face of Ali Bin Ali Luxury and Ali Bin Ai Fashion

Elevating the glamour level of the brands, Ali Bin Ali (ABA) Luxury and Fashion have introduced famous Turkish model and actor Burak Özçivit as their brand ambassador. The big announcement was made by the Vice-Chairman & EVP of Ali Bin Ali Holding Mr. Nabeel Ali Bin Ali on February 21 at the Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition (DJWE) 2023. Also present at the event was CEO of Swiss luxury watch brand Purnell, Mr. Maurizio Mazzocchi.

The flamboyant actor has signed the agreement with ABA Luxury and Fashion making him the face of the brands for the entire Gulf region, for the next four years. During this period, Purnell will be the official watch brand worn by Burak. The Swiss watchmaking maison is one of the most popular brands under ABA Luxury’s portfolio.

Burak Özçivit, who has a large fanbase across the region and even globally, is also a supermodel and the face of many European brands. He was chosen the ‘Top Model of Turkey’ and later picked as the second ‘Best Model of The World’. Since his debut in the acting industry in 2003, he has featured in multiple TV shows and films, gaining international fame.

The superstar will now be the brand ambassador of ABA Luxury and Fashion, exclusively participating in various campaign activities. This partnership will unfold a new burst of positive synergies for the ABA Brands who have always carved innovative ways of appealing to the heart of clients.

Speaking about the exclusive agreement, Mr. Nabeel Ali Bin Ali said: “We are happy and proud to welcome Burak Özçivit into the Ali Bin Ali family. Just like our brand, the actor has a strong sense of individuality, which is enough to make this collaboration exceptional. Wishing him all the best for the coming four years and looking forward to seeing him represent Ali Bin Ali Luxury and Fashion.”

Expressing his excitement about the partnership, Burak said: “I am very happy to become the ambassador for ABA Luxury and ABA Fashion. I hope our collaboration helps us reach the entire Middle East and the entire world.”

ABA Medical signs an exclusive distributor agreement with Zimmer Biomet

On February 05, 2023 Ali Bin Ali Medical signed an exclusive agreement with Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc. (NYSE and SIX: ZBH), one of the three largest orthopedic device companies in the world, as its new distributor in the State of Qatar.

The signing ceremony took place during Arab Health in Dubai, in the presence of various officials from Zimmer Biomet including: Mr. Wilfred Van Zuilen, the President of Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA); Mr. Erik Antos, the Vice President of EMEA Emerging Markets; Ms. Farah Hamdan, the General Manager of Middle East, North Africa and Turkey; and Mr. Ayman Harb, the Sales Associate Director of EMEA. Other executives from Ali Bin Ali Medical who graced the event were: Mr. Monzer Abdel Samad, the General Manager; Ms. Rawia Amineddine, the Operations Manager; and Mr. Majid Haddadi, the Business Unit Manager. This agreement is set to transform patient experience in Qatar through access to Zimmer Biomet’s innovative cutting-edge solutions, products, digital and robotic technologies.

During the announcement of the new agreement, Ms. Hamdan was thrilled on the constant progress Zimmer Biomet has made. “It’s a transformative period in healthcare and the continued growth of Zimmer Biomet’s presence in the Middle East means we can help alleviate pain and improve the quality of life for even more people – and that is our ultimate mission,” said Ms. Hamdan.

Mr. Abdel Samad expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership between the two companies and how it will elevate access to quality healthcare and products for the people of Qatar and the Middle East. “We are proud to reinforce our acumen in the Qatar market. This new partnership will strengthen our presence even further,” noted Abdel Samad.

The new agreement is part of ABA Medical’s holistic vision and milestone of growing its product portfolio, and being the lead and premier importer and distributor of world-class medical equipment. The Middle East and Africa region continues to be an important platform for both companies, in the field of healthcare.

Café Pouchkine expands its presence in Qatar with new outlet at Place Vendome

Café Pouchkine, renowned for being one of Qatar’s popular luxury dining locations with a unique Russian heritage, opened its second outlet at the glamorous Place Vendome Mall in Lusail City. Hosted by Ali Bin Ali Hospitality in Qatar, the café opened its doors to the public on the 5th of January, 2023.

Stationed right at the heart of Place Vendome, Cafe Pouchkine is located on the ground floor of the mall’s south side. The café sits right under the glass dome of the Parisian-inspired structure and blends seamlessly into the architecture, which radiates luxury and extravagance while conveying a touch of cultural and artistic feel. The interiors of the café are equally elegant with the all-white décor. The intimately carved woodwork creates a modern yet classic look that quintessentially describes Café Pouchkine.

Already known as one of the best tea-rooms in Qatar, Café Pouchkine offers a wide range of gastronomical delights. From a snack menu that includes surprising club sandwiches to the timeless café de Paris streak, via delicious Blini – or lunch “à la carte” with crispy dusk salad, or a beef Stroganoff, the cafe promises to take taste buds on an international voyage of discovery. Enjoy a dreamy afternoon with their signature tea and coffee accompanied with a crowd-pleasing section of desserts, including honey cake and macrons.

Commenting on the launch of the new café, General Manager of Ali Bin Ali Hospitality Mr. Bassel Salim Ammar said, “Ali Bin Ali Hospitality is always looking to elevate the hospitality experience for the people of Qatar, and the opening of the new Café Pouchkine outlet is part of that mission. Place Vendome, with its touch of cultural and artistic feel, made it the perfect pairing for us as a location to house Café Pouchkine. The entire team at Café Pouchkine is ready now to serve guests in a new and exciting location, while remaining true to the superior dining experience we have been known to deliver, time and time again.”

Since the brand opened its first café in 2019 at 21 High st as the country’s only restaurant, tea-room and patisserie with an authentic origin hailing from Moscow, Café Pouchkine has continued to rise in popularity among locals and residents in Qatar, who seek unique, high-end experiences.

 

Ali Bin Ali Fashion opens ELIE SAAB boutique in 21 High st, Katara Cultural Village

The ELIE SAAB universe continues its expansion with a new boutique opening in Qatar in collaboration with Ali Bin Ali Fashion. The store is located in Doha’s Katara Cultural Village at 21 High st – Qatar’s fashion hub –– facing the main entrance of Galeries Lafayette Doha. This strategic move comes at a time when the region, and Qatar in particular, is becoming a major travel destination.

Elie Saab Jr, CEO of ELIE SAAB Group says: “Opening a Doha boutique cements our regional influence and our mission to personally cater to our diverse clientele. Qatar has quickly become a global terminus and an imperative fashion location, which is why we have strategically partnered with the country’s leading luxury fashion reference, Ali Bin Ali Fashion, with whom we have a very long-standing relationship, in order to optimize our reach as we continue to expand the ELIE SAAB universe.”

The sophisticated boutique is ready to welcome visitors and fashion aficionados to immerse in its modern and elegant atmosphere. Exquisitely designed, the store showcases the ELIE SAAB Maison line while also highlighting the brand’s signature aesthetic with soft femininity and enduring allure. Visitors are welcomed through proud Roman columns into an expansive 340sqm-interior elevated with warm wood and lavish marble. The new showroom features Ready-to-Wear collections, a dedicated kids’ area, a private bridal salon and VIP wing to cater to our varied clientele.

Regarding the new collaboration, Mr. Kevin Gerard Pender, General Manager of Ali Bin Ali Fashion, said: “We are proud that ELIE SAAB is now a part of Ali Bin Ali Fashion. This collaboration yet again allows us to support our vision of bringing the best of international fashion to Qatar. I am sure that together, ELIE SAAB and Ali Bin Ali Fashion will offer enticing designs to satisfy the refined taste of our clients.” 

 ELIE SAAB Boutique in Doha is designed to expand the brand’s presence in the region and provide a more personalized shopping experience that meets the needs of loyal clientele. With flagship stores in Paris, Beirut, New York, London and the UAE, ELIE SAAB continues to expand a vision for more meaningful connections by launching additional global boutiques in the near future.

Galeries Lafayette Doha inaugurates first-ever Ritz Paris boutique

In yet another milestone for the brand, Galeries Lafayette Doha inaugurated the first-ever Ritz Paris international boutique on October 9, 2022. It was an ideal occasion to reveal iconic objects and star products from the legendary Place Vendôme hotel, such as collectible porcelain tableware designed for the hotel’s gastronomic restaurant, emblematic tulip lamps and celebrated peach-hued peignoirs.

The official inauguration was followed by a VIP event on October 18 to celebrate the launch of the boutique. The exclusive reception was hosted at the Galeries Lafayette La Suite Penthouse where the décor was enhanced with merchandise and decorative elements from Ritz Paris. Live jazz music and Ritz Paris’ signature mocktail drinks set the perfect tone for the occasion.

Present at the event were Ambassador of France to Qatar H E Jean-Baptiste Faivre, Board Member of Ritz Paris Ms. Natalie Bader, who spearheaded this project, and Head of Strategy & Operations of Galeries Lafayette Doha Ms. Al Ghalia Ali Bin Ali.

Located on the ground floor of the French Department Store, the Ritz corner shop offers a complete universe of different categories of products, expressing the style of the Ritz, its magnificence, its soul, and the symbol of the French art of living.

Complementing the boutique, a pop-up corner right at the main entrance of Galeries Lafayette Doha has also been set up to mark the launch. Enchanting and playful, the entrance with hot air balloon baskets symbolizes the joy of travel. The pop-up will be stationed at Galeries Lafayette till October 31.

The boutique expresses all the spirit of the Ritz Paris through its architecture, colors and ambiance. It reprises the essence of the hotel’s illuminations, arcades, moldings, play of mirrors and incomparable 18th-century style with a fresh energy.

Customers are greeted in a retail environment conceived like a dining room and a dressing area, comprising six dedicated spaces: the art of entertaining, home and bath linens, fragrances, gifts and decorative objects, games and accessories, and the brand-new Frame x Ritz Paris fashion capsule collection. The boutique also offers several custom services, such as personalized embroidery — an excellent opportunity to treat others, or oneself, to a little magic of the Ritz Paris.

“More than a hotel, the Ritz Paris today is an iconic, brilliant, vibrant lifestyle that intends to shine all around the world through its products and services. This Doha boutique was designed for all those who love the Ritz Paris, but also and above all for those who dream of discovering it and sharing in a little piece of the legend and French art de vivre,” said Ms. Natalie Bader.

Speaking about the latest partnership, Ms. AlGhalia Nabeel Ali Bin Ali said, “At Galeries Lafayette Doha, we always look to collaborate with iconic and international brands to bring an exclusive experience for the people in Qatar. With the new Ritz Paris Boutique, our clients can enjoy the brand’s exclusive range of products which truly captures the essence of French ‘Art de vivre’, allowing them to experience the refinement of one of the most luxurious hotels in the world.”

Ali Bin Ali Holding launches ‘SNAN’ Food Hall at 21 High st – Katara

Once again offering a unique experience for the people of Qatar, Ali Bin Ali Holding’s Market Hall division has launched ‘SNAN’ Food Hall at 21 High st in Katara Cultural Village.

‘SNAN’ Food Hall was inaugurated on August 1, 2022 by General Manager of Katara Cultural Village, His Excellency Professor Dr. Khalid Bin Ibrahim Al Sulaiti and General Manager of Market Hall Mr. Sebastian Farhat. Also present were senior staff of Ali Bin Ali Holding and Katara Cultural Village in addition to members of local media, bloggers and social media influencers.

Built around the globally renowned Food Hall approach, ‘SNAN’ means ‘the tip of the spear’ in Arabic; therefore, ‘SNAN’ Food Hall’s goal is to be at the forefront of any high-end retail food shop in Qatar.

Located right on the main street of 21 High st, along the same line as Galeries Lafayette Doha’s main entrance, ‘SNAN’ is a high-end multi-functional Food Hall with a  truly eclectic European-styled look which blends perfectly well with the classy grandeur of 21 High st.

The building that houses ‘SNAN’ Food Hall is made of wrought iron and glass with a stunning interior. At the very center of the hall is a beautiful grand staircase with wrought iron railings that lead to a separate area upstairs. The colorful mosaic-tiled ceiling exudes luxury and elegance, and gives you a feeling of being in Victorian Europe.

Complemented by exclusive customer service, ‘SNAN’ offers an extensive, high-quality product range sourced from across the world. The retail gourmet section at ‘SNAN’ Food Hall is located on the ground floor with a wide selection of fresh fruits and vegetable. The hall also houses the best premium Colombian coffee house – Juan Valdez, the original Belgium chocolate boutique – Neuhaus and a flower shop.

Offering some delightful gastronomical treats, the elaborate dining space is located on the first floor of the building and consists of a pizzeria and as well as a grill/roastery.

Additionally, ‘SNAN’ Food Hall offers a full bakery and pastry section with the most delicious baguettes, croissants, bread, cakes and more. A dedicated gourmet cheese section that will tempt the taste buds of every cheese lover, and a full Deli with salads, olives, cold cuts, add to ‘SNAN’s’ appeal, making it a must-visit location for Qatar’s cosmopolitan shoppers.

Speaking about the new addition to the Cultural Village, General Manager of Katara Cultural Village , His Excellency Professor Dr. Khalid Bin Ibrahim Al Sulaiti said: “Katara Cultural Village is all about showcasing diverse cultures and we are happy to welcome a European styled ‘food hall’ in our premises. ‘SNAN’, with all its grandeur, merges originally with the landscape of Katara – most multidimensional cultural project of Qatar.”

Commenting on the launch, the General Manager of Market Hall Mr. Sebastian Farhat said, “We are proud to launch ‘SNAN’ Food Hall and introduce it as a place that is bursting with flavors from around the world. ‘SNAN’ Food Hall is tipped to be a showcase of all things seasonal and delicious with quality brands and products curated to satisfy the discerning tastes of shoppers. We have ensured that ‘SNAN’ is surrounded by the stunning architecture of 21 High st and nestled within the confines of Katara Cultural Village. That is why we can promise that ‘SNAN’ will deliver far more than a typical shopping experience.”

Ali Bin Ali Fashion opens Berluti store in Qatar

Once again bringing the finest in international fashion to Qatar, Ali Bin Ali (ABA) Fashion has inaugurated a new store for the Parisian men’s fashion house Berluti. The boutique at Place Vendome Mall was opened to the public on Friday, July 22, offering a 360-degree Berluti lifestyle experience.

Berluti, a name synonymous with style, elegance and unparalleled craftsmanship – and founded by Alessandro Berluti, is renowned for their deep understanding of the mastery of footwear, consistently producing shoes for the well-shod gentleman since its birth in 1895.

Since then, Berluti has cultivated its own unique style by bringing together audacity and elegance. Expertise in shape, leather patinas, fabric selection and precision of cut are the signatures of the ideal male wardrobe. From head to toe.

Located in the luxury section of Place Vendome near Dior and Loro Piana boutiques, Berluti organically blends with the gorgeous architecture of the destination. Like all other Berluti stores around the globe, the boutique design focuses on luxurious simplicity through exceptional materials.

With a welcoming and pristine setting of white and warm browns, the décor is inspired by the depth and variety of Berluti’s leather patina. In a subdued salon-like atmosphere, Berluti’s Club chair and furniture offering are displayed, overlooking the patina-inspired ceiling, celebrating the Maison’s lifestyle heritage and innovations.

Curated for the Qatari taste, the collection at the Place Vendome boutique will display a complete range of men’s accessories, including shoes and leather goods. The French House makes no apologies for their exceptionally luxurious goods, making the Berluti man undeniably elegant with exquisite taste.

From shoes, bags, wallets to accessories, Berluti creations are hand-assembled and customizable from the wooden last to the choice of leather and patinas.

Speaking about the latest addition to ABA Fashion’s portfolio, General Manager of ABA Fashion Mr. Kevin Gerard Pender said: “We are very proud to be associated with such a luxurious fashion House and present the only Berluti store in Qatar. With the common vision of offering premium experience for our esteemed clients, ABA Fashion and Berluti hope to please the refined taste in fashion of the people in Qatar.”

 

Ali Bin Ali Luxury supports Dreama with Ramadan special donation

In line with the Group’s corporate social responsibility, Ali Bin Ali Luxury once again came forward to support Dreama by arranging a Ramadan special donation for the Orphans Care Center. This is for the 9th year in a row that ABA Luxury donated 5% of its turnover during The Holy Month of Ramadan to Dreama. The collected amount for this year was handed over to Dreama on June 20, 2022.

ABA Luxury has always considered its role to support the community to be very important and stressed on corporate cooperation to achieve the goals and mission and give back to the society. The donation for Dreama will help facilitate necessary care for the targeted categories in Qatar, and achieve their stability in alternative foster families to integrate them into society.

Mrs. Al-Anoud Hassan Darwish, Acting Executive Director of Dreama – Orphan Care Center thanked and appreciated Ali Bin Ali Luxury for their support to Dreama, and stressed the importance of the company’s continuous efforts to sponsor community and development initiatives, and added that this initiative reflects their commitment to supporting orphans Over the past years and their continued support for this year.

Speaking about the donation drive, COO of ABA Luxury Mr. Awn Zureikat said: “We are pleased to be a long term partner of Dreama in their noble cause. ABA Luxury is always keen to support endeavors that benefit the society. The efforts of Dreama – Orphan Care Center to improve the lives of orphans in Qatar deserve our support.”

The Orphan Care Center (Dreama) was established under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Mozah Bint Nasser. The Center was inaugurated on 10th of June 2002 and started its services effectively after Her Highness’s inauguration of the Dreama Complex on May 2, 2007. The Center is operating under the umbrella of Qatar Foundation for Social Work since 2013.

Ali Bin Ali Luxury dazzles at the 18th edition of Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition 2022

Once again, Ali Bin Ali Luxury dazzled at the 2022 Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition (DJWE). The precious journey to the heart of glamor unfolded at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center from the 9th till the 14th May 2022. The show was a grand success with jewelry lovers gathering to experience the special occasion and witness an outstanding array of high-end merchandise.

The exhibition has had great importance and a special meaning for Ali Bin Ali Luxury ever since it opened its doors 18 years ago. Ali Bin Ali Luxury pavilion proudly housed niche jewellery brands from around the globe displaying their finest creations.

Exhibition-goers from around Qatar as well as international visitors who visited ABA Luxury’s pavilion had the opportunity to enjoy fine timepieces, exquisite jewelry, classical writing instruments and sophisticated accessories.

Speaking about Ali Bin Ali Luxury’s participation in the region’s biggest watches and jewelry exhibition, Chief Operating Officer of Ali Bin Ali Luxury Mr. Awn Zureikat said: “Ali Bin Ali Luxury is proud of its association with DJWE where exclusivity, art and unique craftsmanship come together to tell an unforgettable experience. Over the years, DJWE has solidified its position as one of the most important events in the region and we are proud to be a part of this success story from its inception.”

Ali Bin Ali Luxury continued to build on the success of the previous years to unveil an exquisite range of new and unique designs at this year’s fair. Apart from the old favorites, new brands like Robert Procop jewelry from USA and Purnell watches from Switzerland were featured at this year’s exhibition.

Other brands that Ali Bin Ali Luxury exhibited at this year’s event were: Arnold & Son, AS29, Audemars Piguet, Baume et Mercier, Buccellati, Cartier, Damiani, David Morris, Garrard, Gilan, Gorgoglione, Graff, Graham,  Hulchi Belluni, HYT, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Lalaounis, Leo Pizzo, Marco Valente, Messika, Mikimoto, Montblanc, Panerai, Piaget, Pomellato, Prologue, Ralph Lauren, RCM, Repossi, RF Jewelry, Richard Mille, Roger Dubuis, Schreiner, Shamballa, Stenzhorn, Ulysse Nardin, Van Cleef & Arpels and Verdi.